STOOL ELASTASE TEST

Costs vary widely. In the United States an out‑of‑pocket stool elastase test typically runs about $50–$250, depending on the lab and insurance. In India it's commonly around ₹600–₹1,500. In the UK and many public healthcare systems the test is usually provided at no direct cost when ordered by a clinician. Prices depend on location, lab, and insurance coverage.

Fecal elastase reflects pancreatic exocrine function. Normal fecal elastase is ≥200 µg/g stool. Values 100–200 µg/g suggest mild to moderate exocrine pancreatic insufficiency; values <100 µg/g indicate severe insufficiency. Results should be interpreted with clinical context and repeat testing or specialist referral if abnormal. A single formed stool sample is used; watery diarrhea can falsely lower results.

Low elastase—usually measured in stool and indicating exocrine pancreatic insufficiency—causes greasy, foul‑smelling or pale stools (steatorrhea), chronic diarrhea, abdominal pain, bloating and excessive gas. It often leads to unintended weight loss, nutrient deficiencies (especially fat‑soluble vitamins), fatigue, and signs of malabsorption such as anemia and easy bruising; symptoms may be gradual and variable.

Fecal elastase results are usually available within 2–7 days after the lab receives the stool sample. Some laboratories can report results in 24–48 hours for urgent requests, while mailed or referred samples may take longer (up to about 10 days). Turnaround depends on transport, lab workload, and any additional testing; check with your clinic or lab for their specific timeframe.

Early signs of pancreatic exocrine insufficiency include persistent greasy, pale, foul-smelling stools (steatorrhea), loose stools or diarrhea, excessive gas and bloating, abdominal discomfort or cramping, and unintended weight loss despite normal appetite. Over time, fat‑soluble vitamin deficiencies may cause fatigue, easy bruising, bone pain, or anemia. See a clinician for testing if these symptoms appear.

The stool elastase test measures the amount of pancreatic elastase enzyme in a single stool sample to assess exocrine pancreatic function. Low elastase levels indicate pancreatic exocrine insufficiency, seen in chronic pancreatitis, cystic fibrosis, or after pancreatic surgery. It’s a noninvasive screening tool used to diagnose or monitor malabsorption severity and to guide pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy.